FORD EcoSport

Introduction

The Ford EcoSport was officially discontinued in India in 2022 following Ford's announcement in September 2021 to cease manufacturing and sales operations in the country. This decision was attributed to financial losses and low plant utilisation. While production for export markets continued briefly, it was fully halted by mid-2022.

Ford EcoSport Variants:

The Ford EcoSport was available in six trim levels: Ambiente, Trend, Titanium, Titanium+, EcoSport S, and Thunder Edition. The Thunder Edition, replacing the Signature trim, was based on the Titanium variant and introduced additional features. Both petrol and diesel engine options were offered across the range, catering to varied consumer preferences.

Ford EcoSport Design and Features:

The Ford EcoSport featured a bold front fascia with a large radiator grille accented by a broad chrome strip and the Ford emblem at its center. The headlight clusters were equipped with high-intensity halogen lights and integrated turn indicators. The front bumper was body-colored and incorporated a large air dam for improved engine cooling. The rear bumper housed reflectors and dual exhaust pipes. The vehicle measured 3,999 mm in length, 1,765 mm in width, and 1,708 mm in height, with a ground clearance of 200 mm. Pronounced wheel arches added to its SUV stance.

Inside, the cabin was designed for comfort with plush seats and premium upholstery. The seating arrangement was ergonomic and supportive, enhancing the overall driving experience. The dashboard included an instrument cluster with notification LEDs displaying critical vehicle information. A leather-wrapped multifunctional steering wheel was equipped with integrated controls for the infotainment system and Bluetooth connectivity. Additional features included power windows, a tachometer, seat belts, and a multifunctional information system. The five-seat configuration ensured adequate space for passengers, with lumbar-supported seats enhancing long-distance comfort.

Ford EcoSport: Engine and Performance

The petrol-powered EcoSport featured a 1.5L Ti-VCT four-cylinder engine delivering 110 BHP at 6,300 RPM and 140 Nm of torque at 4,400 RPM. This engine enabled the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 13.25 seconds, achieving a top speed of 165 km/h. The vehicle's performance characteristics were tailored for both urban and highway driving, balancing efficiency and power.

Ford EcoSport Safety Features:

The Ford EcoSport was equipped with six airbags, dual front airbags, central locking, and seat belts with electronic stability program (ESP). Rear parking sensors and hill start assist further enhanced safety. The vehicle also featured an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and the SYNC emergency alert system, which automatically contacted emergency services in the event of an accident, adding an extra layer of safety.

Competition

During its time in the market, the Ford EcoSport competed with compact SUVs such as the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, and Mahindra XUV300. It positioned itself as a feature-rich offering with a strong build quality and capable performance, catering to consumers looking for a robust compact SUV.